Hurtigruten, The Classic Round Trip Voyage

DAY 1 | BERGEN
WELCOME ABOARD!

Your journey begins in Bergen, Norway’s second-largest city and gateway to the fjords. Founded in 1070, Bergen boasts architecture influenced by the Hanseatic League, a prosperous German trading organization from the 14th century.

If you have time before your ship departs, explore the UNESCO-listed wharfside district of Bryggen, now a vibrant artisan quarter with cobblestone streets. Just across the street is the famous fish market offering delicious seafood. You can also take the Fløibanen funicular to the top of Mount Fløyen for stunning views of the city.

To make the most of your stay in Norway, remember we can assist in organizing excursions before or after your voyage, including the “Norway in a Nutshell” program.

Your Journey Begins

Before boarding, relax in the comfort of our passenger terminal lounge. Once on board, savor the first of many delightful meals crafted from fresh coastal ingredients as we depart Bergen and sail along the ancient Viking route through Hjeltefjord.

You’ll also meet the Coastal Express of your ship who will guide you throughout our Norwegian coastal cruise, organizing lectures, onboard activities, and optional hikes.

Port Call Schedule:

Bergen: 14:45-20:30

DAY 2 | FLORØ
ICONIC ARCHITECTURE AND GRAND FJORDS

Enjoy a tranquil morning in the stunning Nordfjord near Torvik before rounding the West Cape and approaching Ålesund.

City of Art Nouveau

Ålesund is renowned for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture and Atlanterhavsparken, one of Northern Europe’s largest aquariums. If you’re traveling with us in spring or winter, you’ll have most of the day to explore this picturesque city.

In the Fjords

During summer, we head towards the spectacular UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, passing through some of Norway’s most breathtaking landscapes. Once inside the fjord, you may catch sight of the famous Seven Sisters waterfalls cascading down the cliffs.

In autumn, we explore the hidden gem of Hjørundfjord, nestled in the Sunnmøre Alps. A stop is also scheduled in the quaint village of Urke to admire millennium-old farms, the fjord, and lush mountain slopes.

Mountains and Roses

Our final port of call for the day is Molde. In summer, there may be just enough light left to enjoy the incredible view of the 222 mountain peaks across the fjord, known as the “Molde Panorama.”

From mid-June to late August, the streets and gardens of Molde bloom with fragrant roses of all colors, honoring its nickname as the “Town of Roses.”

Port Call Schedule:

Florø: 02:45-03:00
Måløy: 05:15-05:30
Torvik: 08:20-08:30
Ålesund (Nov 1 – May 31): 09:45-20:00
Ålesund (Jun 1 – Oct 31): 09:45-10:00
Geiranger (Jun 1 – Aug 31): 14:25-14:45
Ålesund (Jun 1 – Aug 31): 19:00-20:00
Urke (Sep 1 – Oct 31): 12:15-15:45
Ålesund (Sep 1 – Oct 31): 18:00-20:00
Molde: 22:35-23:05

Optional Excursions:
Geiranger and the Troll Road
Art Nouveau Discovery (spring and winter)
Atlanterhavsparken Aquarium and Mount Aksla
A Taste of Norway
Mountain Hike in Hjørundfjord
Farm Discovery Hike
Hjørundfjord, Geiranger, Ålesund
Kayaking in Ålesund
Alnes Lighthouse
Sunnmore Open-Air Museum
Romsdal Cable Car

DAY 3: KRISTIANSUND – RØRVIK
CITY OF KINGS

During this part of the journey, we enter the Trøndelag region of Norway, characterized by hills, fields dotted with farms, and low-lying coastal villages.

Magical, Medieval, and Modern

Founded by Viking chieftain Olav Tryggvason in 997, Trondheim is now Norway’s third-largest city, blending historic buildings with a vibrant student population.

You’ll have three hours to explore Trondheim and its highlights, either on your own or as part of one of our optional excursions.

A landmark of the city, the Nidaros Cathedral, nicknamed the “Notre-Dame of Norway” for its Gothic style, is considered the most sacred building in Norway. Nearby is the Archbishop’s Palace, where the Norwegian Crown Jewels are displayed.

Close by, the city’s old bridge, Gamle Bybro, spans the Nidelva River and marks the entrance to the historic Hanseatic district of Bakklandet. The district’s colorful wooden warehouses on stilts along the river now house trendy restaurants. Atop Bakklandet sits Kristiansten Fortress, offering beautiful panoramas of the city and fjord.

Return to Ship

In the afternoon, the ship will head northwest, passing by the ochre Kjeungskjær Lighthouse, islets, and rocky reefs. Afterward, we’ll arrive in the charming town of Rørvik.

Port Call Schedule:

Kristiansund: 02:45-03:00
Trondheim: 09:45-12:45
Rørvik: 21:40-22:00

Optional Excursions:
Nidaros Cathedral and Ringve Museum
Trondheim and Nidaros Cathedral
Guided Walk in Trondheim
Kayak Trip on the Nidelva River
Biking Tour of Trondheim

DAY 4: BRØNNØYSUND – SVOLVÆR
INTO THE ARCTIC

Early in the morning, we will cross the Arctic Circle, marking the beginning of our exploration into Norwegian Arctic. This moment is celebrated with a traditional ceremony that will surely awaken your spirits!

Above the Arctic Circle, the sun remains visible 24 hours a day in summer, while in winter, your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights significantly increase.

Forces of Nature

At 10:00, we will make a stop at Ørnes, near Norway’s second largest glacier, Svartisen. The pier here is famous for its “Love Bench,” where lovers declare their feelings by attaching padlocks.

We will then sail towards Bodø, the second largest city in Northern Norway, dominated by the peaks of the Børvass mountains. You can admire fabulous street art or join an optional boat excursion to Saltstraumen, the world’s strongest tidal current.

Welcome to Lofoten

This afternoon, the ship will enter the Lofoten archipelago. The towering Lofoten Wall, rising 1,000 meters, presents an impressive sight on the horizon, as if welcoming us.

Stamsund harbor hosts one of the largest fishing fleets in the islands. Activity here is particularly vibrant from January to April, when the Arctic cod, locally known as “skrei,” migrates from the Barents Sea northwards to the Vestfjord for spawning.

As evening falls, the sight of traditional fishermen’s cabins on stilts, called “rorbus,” will mark our arrival in the charming port of Svolvær, the main town of the Lofoten Islands.

Port Call Schedule:

Brønnøysund: 01:35-01:45
Sandnessjøen: 04:35-04:50
Nesna: 06:00-06:10
Ørnes: 10:00-10:10
Bodø: 13:05-15:20
Stamsund: 19:15-19:40
Svolvær: 21:20-22:15

Optional Excursions:
Svartisen Glacier
Arctic Coastal Walk
Exploring Bodø and Saltstraumen
Sea Safari, Saltstraumen
Meeting the Vikings (winter)
Meeting the Vikings (summer)
Wonders of Lofoten
Visit to a Lofoten farm

DAY 5: STOKMARKNES – SKJERVØY
THE ARCTIC CAPITAL

We will dock in Harstad just after 7:00 AM, offering you the opportunity to take an early morning stroll through the peaceful town.

The ship will then continue towards Finnsnes, which connects to the stunning island of Senja via the impressive Gisund Bridge.

Keep an eye out for various seabirds, including puffins, as well as the possibility of spotting whales in these waters, especially in winter.

Gateway to the Arctic

Next, we will reach Tromsø, the historical capital of Arctic exploration, where you’ll have four hours to explore the city or participate in an optional excursion.

Located on the waterfront, you’ll find Polaria, the world’s northernmost aquarium. Explore the many shops and restaurants in the city center, including the Mack brewery and Ølhallen pub, a popular local café. Don’t forget to visit trendy cafes offering delicious cinnamon buns and baristas showcasing innovative coffee art. Across the fjord from where the ship docks, you should be able to spot the iconic Arctic Cathedral with its beautiful stained glass mosaic.

We’ll depart Tromsø in the early evening and head north towards the trading post of Skjervøy, founded in 1622. Along the way, we’ll pass by the majestic Lyngen Alps towering above the sea.

Port Call Schedule:

Stokmarknes: 01:30-01:40
Sortland: 02:55-03:10
Risøyhamn: 04:35-04:50
Harstad: 07:10-07:45
Finnsnes: 11:00-11:30
Tromsø: 14:15-18:15
Skjervøy: 22:10-22:25

Optional Excursions:
Tromsø, Arctic Capital
Dog Sledding (Tromsø)
Visit to a Husky Dog Farm
Walk through Polar History
Cross-country Skiing Excursion
Snowshoeing in Tromsø
Electric Catamaran Cruise in Tromsø

DAY 6: ØKSFJORD – BERLEVÅG
THE NORTHERN BORDER OF NORWAY

The ship will reach the town of Hammerfest on the island of Kvaløya early in the morning. In summer, the island hosts herds of reindeer that migrate there by the thousands.

You’ll know we’ve arrived at Havøysund when you see the wind turbines of the famous Havøyglaven wind farm, which generates enough electricity to power 6,000 local households.

On Top of Europe

We’ll arrive at Honningsvåg, the gateway to the North Cape, in the mid-morning. A globe-shaped monument marks the northernmost point of mainland Europe. The optional excursion to this spectacular promontory is highly popular, so early booking is recommended.

The Sami Stronghold

Near the entrance to the village of Kjøllefjord, look for Finnkirka, an impressive rock formation resembling a cathedral. This ancient sacrificial site was once used by the indigenous Sami people. You can participate in an optional excursion to meet local Sami, learn about their reindeer herding lifestyle, and listen to traditional joik songs.

Heading North

We’ll reach Mehamn, our northernmost port of call, in the evening. If you visit in February and March, you might see tons of cod drying on wooden racks called “hjell,” mainly for export.

The ship will then set sail for Berlevåg. Along the way, we’ll pass by the grand Slettnes Lighthouse, the northernmost continental lighthouse on the planet.

Port Call Schedule:

Øksfjord: 01:50-02:00
Hammerfest: 05:05-05:45
Havøysund: 08:30-08:45
Honningsvåg: 10:55-14:30
Kjøllefjord: 16:40-17:00
Mehamn: 18:55-19:15
Berlevåg: 22:00-22:10

Optional Excursions:
The North Cape
Bird Safari
Sami Culture
Snowmobile Safari in the Heart of the Arctic
Autumn Sami Experience
Exclusive Platinum North Cape Excursion
Visit to Fishing Villages
RIB Expedition up to 71° North

DAY 7: BÅTSFJORD – BERLEVÅG
THE EASTERN BORDER OF NORWAY

We will make stops at Båtsfjord and Vardø during the night before docking in Vadsø early in the morning.

Look to the Skies

The region surrounding Vadsø is one of the most beautiful and popular birdwatching areas in the Arctic, as it lies directly on the migration route of birds coming from the East. Keep an eye out for rough-legged buzzards and white-tailed eagles.

Close Neighbors

Once we reach Kirkenes after breakfast, you’ll have traveled further east than Saint Petersburg and Istanbul. You can choose from several optional excursions to explore the city.

Located just a few kilometers from the Russian border, Kirkenes is heavily influenced by its neighboring nation, evidenced by bilingual Norwegian-Russian signage, a monthly Russian market, and a Russian monument commemorating the city’s liberation by the Red Army during World War II.

Turning Point of the Journey

Kirkenes marks the turning point of your cruise along the Norwegian coast as the ship begins its journey southward. Many of the places we passed during the night will now be visible during daylight.

Back in Vardø, you can visit the solemn Witch Memorial and the star-shaped Vardøhus Fortress, built in 1737. As the northernmost fortification, it still belongs to the Norwegian Army today.

We’ll return to the bustling small port of Båtsfjord and then head to Berlevåg in the late evening, crossing paths with ships sailing northward.

Port Call Schedule:

Båtsfjord: 00:00-00:30
Vardø: 03:30-03:45
Vadsø: 06:55-07:10
Kirkenes: 09:00-12:30
Vardø: 16:05-17:00
Båtsfjord: 20:00-20:30
Berlevåg: 22:25-22:35

Optional Excursions:
The Norwegian Border
Boat Excursion to the Norwegian Border
Snowmobile Safari
Kirkenes Snowhotel
Quad Safari to the Norwegian Border
Dog Sledding
King Crab Safari (Summer)
King Crab Safari (Winter)

DAY 8: MEHAMN – TROMSØ
FROM THE ROOF OF EUROPE

We will make stops at Mehamn and Kjøllefjord overnight before visiting Honningsvåg and Havøysund early in the morning.

Almost the Northernmost

In the early afternoon, you’ll spend time in Hammerfest, which was once the northernmost city in the world before Longyearbyen in Svalbard claimed the title.

Visit the UNESCO-listed Meridian Column, shop for souvenirs at the Polar Bear Society, or take the path behind the city to the viewpoint at Mount Salen.

Mountains and Marine Mammals

We will continue sailing along the Norwegian coast southwards to Øksfjord and then to Skjervøy, surrounded by towering peaks. This fishing port has been vital since 1896.

If you’re visiting in winter, you might spot orcas and humpback whales gathering here to feed on herring.

En route to Tromsø, you’ll also catch sight of the Lyngen Alps, home to some of Norway’s highest peaks.

The Magic of Midnight

You’ll arrive in Tromsø just before midnight. During the summer months, you can stroll through the still-bustling city enjoying the 24-hour daylight.

Optional excursions are also available, such as a midnight boat ride through the city or a candlelit classical concert in the Arctic Cathedral.

Port Call Schedule:

Mehamn: 01:20-01:30
Kjøllefjord: 03:25-03:35
Honningsvåg: 05:45-06:00
Havøysund: 08:00-08:15
Hammerfest: 11:00-12:45
Øksfjord: 15:50-16:05
Skjervøy: 19:30-19:45
Tromsø: 23:45-01:30

Optional Excursions:
Breakfast at the North Cape
The Northernmost City in the World
Midnight Concert in the Arctic Cathedral
Snowmobile Safari in the Polar Night
Mountain Hike in Hammerfest
In the Footsteps of a Polar Hero

DAY 9: TROMSØ – STAMSUND
HIGH PEAKS AND IDYLLIC ISLANDS

Today, you will explore the Lofoten and Vesterålen archipelagos, the highlights of our scenic journey along Norway’s coast.

After departing Finnsnes early in the morning, the ship will stop at Harstad, where the northernmost medieval stone church in the world, Trondenes Church, stands on the peninsula.

Next, we’ll visit our smallest port of call, Risøyhamn, followed by Sortland, where the landscape gradually transitions from hills to 1,000-meter mountains.

Our Hometown

Stokmarknes is where Captain Richard With founded the Coastal Express in 1893. Visit the Hurtigruten Museum, which showcases our heritage. Inside, you’ll find miniature ship models displayed in bottles, alongside the MS Finnmarken, a retired ship built in 1956.

A Fjord the Size of a Ship

As we sail through the Raftsund strait, the captain may choose to navigate into the narrow Trollfjord. The mountain walls will seem so close that you might feel you could touch them! Exiting the fjord requires a 180-degree turn before departure. Keep an eye out for sea eagles here too.

Departure from Lofoten

We’ll arrive in Svolvær in the evening. The towering mountain overlooking the town is called Svolvær Goat due to its supposed resemblance. You can judge for yourself!

The ship will then head towards Stamsund, passing by the giant granite cliffs of the Lofoten Wall.

Port Call Schedule:

Tromsø: 23:45-01:30
Finnsnes: 04:20-04:40
Harstad: 08:00-08:30
Risøyhamn: 10:45-11:00
Sortland: 12:30-13:00
Stokmarknes: 14:15-15:15
Svolvær: 18:30-20:30
Stamsund: 22:15-22:30

Optional Excursions:
Vesterålen Islands
Lofoten Islands
Eagle Safari
Horseback Riding in the Lofoten Islands
Sea Eagle Safari in Lofoten
Village Fishing Walk
Vesterålen and Lofoten Islands by Rigid Inflatable Boat
Electric Catamaran Cruise in Lofoten
Lofotpils Brewery
Hurtigruten Museum
Hurtigruten Museum – Entry Only

DAY 10: BODØ – RØRVIK
A LAND OF TROLLS

This morning, the ship will dock at Bodø at sunrise, followed by a stop at Ørnes at 7:00 AM. We will then cross the Arctic Circle shortly after breakfast. Take advantage of this special occasion by trying a spoonful of traditional cod liver oil!

Next, we’ll make a brief stop at Nesna before sailing towards Sandnessjøen, the gateway to the stunning Helgeland coastline.

The Legend of the Seven Sisters

Marvel at the spectacular landscape of the Seven Sisters mountain range, with peaks reaching up to 1,100 meters high. According to local legend, seven beautiful troll princesses, fleeing an unwanted suitor, were caught by the sunrise, turning them into the seven magnificent mountains you see today.

You will also not miss Torghatten Mountain, famous for its distinctive hole through which the sun can be seen at certain times of the year. A local legend tells the story of how this hole was formed. Feel free to ask your Coastal Expert to tell you more!

We will reach Brønnøysund in the mid-afternoon. Explore the lively marina as you stroll along Havnegata. At the heart of the town stands Brønnøy Church, a beautiful neo-Gothic stone church dating back to 1870.

Our final stop of the day will be Rørvik, a cozy fishing port in the picturesque Vikna archipelago.

Schedule of stops:

Bodø: 02:30-03:30
Ørnes: 06:25-06:35
Nesna: 10:25-10:35
Sandnessjøen: 11:45-12:15
Brønnøysund: 15:00-17:25
Rørvik: 21:00-21:30

Optional Excursions:
Vega Archipelago, UNESCO World Heritage Site
Salmon Discovery
Hiking at Torghatten Mountain
Visit to Hildurs Urterarium

Enjoy this day to explore these beautiful destinations and immerse yourself in the legends and unique landscapes of the Norwegian coast.

DAY 11: TRONDHEIM – ÅLESUND
COASTAL COMMUNITIES AND KLIPPFISK

Spend the morning in Trondheim, then sail along beautiful island landscapes and some of Norway’s smaller communities before reaching Kristiansund and Molde.

The Viking Age Capital

Stroll through Trondheim in the early morning as the city begins to wake up. Visit the sacred Nidaros Cathedral, the burial site of Saint Olav. Then, walk to the Gamle Bybro bridge for some photos over the Nidelva River.

Indulge in a good coffee and Nordic pastry at one of the many chic cafes in the Bakklandet district, then climb up to Kristiansten Fortress for a stunning view of Norway’s third-largest city.

The Dried Cod Trade

We’ll dock in Kristiansund in the late afternoon. The city sprawls across three islands and is known as the “Norwegian capital of Bacalao” for the salted cod drying on the surrounding cliffs, known as klippfisk in Norwegian.

Stroll through the cobblestone streets of the old town and visit the lively harbor. You can also hike up to the old watchtower at Varden viewpoint for a beautiful panorama.

Peaks and Petals

Molde will be the penultimate port of the day, where you can glimpse the peaks of the Romsdal Alps. Dubbed the “City of Roses,” Molde should be in full bloom from mid-June to late August.

Schedule of stops:

Trondheim: 06:30-09:30
Kristiansund: 16:30-17:30
Molde: 21:15-21:45

Optional Excursions:
Trondheim and Nidaros Cathedral
Hidden Treasures of Nidaros Cathedral
The Atlantic Road
Bergtatt – Discovering a Marble Cave

Enjoy exploring these picturesque destinations and experiencing the cultural and natural delights of the Norwegian coastline.

DAY 12: ÅLESUND – BERGEN
HOPE TO SEE YOU AGAIN

Our journey together along the Norwegian coast, at least for now, will come to an end later today. Overnight, we will make stops in Ålesund and Torvik. As we approach Måløy, if you wake up early enough, you might catch a glimpse of the Coastal Express sailing northward.

Morning Highlights

You’ll have the chance to see the Nordfjord, under the massive Jostedal Glacier, the largest on mainland Europe.

The ship will then dock in Florø in the morning, where you can explore the port and marina.

The Final Stretch

Leaving Florø, you’ll spot Stabben lighthouse, a favorite subject for photographers. You’ll also enjoy breathtaking views as we cross the mouth of the Sognefjord, the longest and widest fjord in Norway.

To reach our final port in the afternoon, the ship will navigate through the last islands and reefs of our coastal route in Norway, descending into the Hjeltefjord to arrive in Bergen.

Explore More of Norway

Unfortunately, it’s time to bid farewell to the Captain, crew, and your fellow passengers.

But your journey doesn’t have to end right after disembarkation. We offer a tour of Bergen and a choice of optional post-voyage programs to add to your cruise, including exploring the Sognefjord by train or visiting Oslo.

Schedule of stops:

Ålesund: 00:30-01:20
Torvik: 02:35-02:45
Måløy: 05:45-06:00
Florø: 08:15-08:30
Bergen: 14:45

In Norway, the four seasons are vastly different from one another. Onboard activities, restaurant menus, and shore excursions vary depending on the time of year and the waters we navigate. Each season brings new opportunities to experience a Hurtigruten voyage with a completely different light.